It often seems like one opportunity leads to the next and that’s the case for Darin and Tina Stene. Situated in Shellbrook, the couple began Triple S Transport in 1995 to provide surrounding communities with grain hauling. As time passed, the company expanded to provide flat deck and tanker hauling, and about six years ago, they launched Green Earth Road Spraying, a complementary company that provides dust control, spraying, and manufactures and distributes liquid de-icer for road safety.
“Over the years, we have been through a lot,” said Darin. “We’ve seen labour shortages, fuel shortages, the pandemic and so on. Regardless of what the economy throws our way, we have remained proactive and resilient throughout all the changes needed to keep our business thriving.”
Darin grew up on a farm just outside of Shellbrook and his upbringing laid the foundation for his future career. At an early age, he learned how to operate all the different pieces of farm machinery and equipment, and he quickly developed a passion for the trucking industry. This passion eventually led him and Tina to start their own firm.
From those humble beginnings, the company has grown to 37 employees, and is always on the lookout for more drivers to join the team. Today, Triple S Transport has a full line of trailers including flat decks, step decks, a ten-wide tilt deck, super B flat decks and super B tankers. It also provides over-dimensional hauling and pilot car services. The company, which is 50 per cent Métis-owned, operates across Canada and is always looking for ways to expand its areas of service. Green Earth Spraying works within Saskatchewan.
Green Earth Road Spraying uses a calcium chloride base stabilization to harden a road surface and reduce rutting caused by heavy traffic
The expansion into Green Earth took place about six years ago. Triple S Transport was contracted by Kortech, an Alberta company that produces and distributes calcium chloride, to transport their products. As they began working more closely together, Darin and Tina determined there was a future in becoming a distributor and established the new company.
“Green Earth Road Spraying provides a start-to-finish – and beyond – relationship with all our customers,” said Darin. “We haul the fluid, prep the roadways or coach the rural municipal operators on how to prep their roadways, spray the calcium chloride and follow up with the maintenance with all the rural municipalities that we work with. Each roadway is unique and must be treated as such. Proper preparation and maintenance are key for any roadway, and we make sure to be a part of both with all our customers.”
Heavy construction contractors in Saskatchewan often turn to Green Earth Road Spraying for its expertise in dust control. The company frequently receives inquiries about the benefits of dust control and the application rates needed to achieve optimal results.
“As dust control becomes increasingly sought after, we strive to provide the most effective solutions and remain at the forefront of the industry,” said Darin.
“Proper preparation and maintenance are key for any roadway, and we make sure to be a part of both with all our customers.”
– Darin Stene, Green Earth Road Spraying
Understanding calcium chloride
Green Earth Road Spraying uses a calcium chloride base stabilization to harden a road surface to reduce rutting from heavy traffic. It also reduces surface erosion and sedimentation, improves safety on the roads by reducing dust, raveling and wash boarding and lessens costly frost penetration. There are also different types and mixes of calcium chloride, some of which are less corrosive on roads compared to traditional de-icing rock salts, and others that are designed for roadways with little or no clay in the aggregate.
Darin and Tina’s dedication to their clients helps them stand out from competitors. Green Earth Road Spraying provides start to finish services and goes above and beyond to establish a strong relationship with customers. Due to the increasing demand, there is no shortage of work to go around. However, it can be difficult to schedule all the clients because Mother Nature sometimes has different plans.
Supply chain issues have also been a concern for the company. They have had trucks down for close to year while waiting for parts to arrive. Even now, they have several parts on backorder that are needed to repair trucks essential to business.
One of Green Earth Road Spraying’s units
Being part of the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association has been helpful to the company. SHCA provides excellent training and advice for those in the industry. Making connections and being able to phone others in the industry who have important information is extremely beneficial.
As family-run businesses, both Triple S Transport and Green Earth Road Spraying understand the importance of a healthy relationship with customers. Whether it is delivering goods from coast to coast, or providing much-needed road maintenance work, you can count on both companies to provide excellent service.
To celebrate 75 years in business, Redhead Equipment raised more than $166,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan
By Craig Slobodian, Redhead Equipment
In conjunction with Redhead Equipment’s 75th business anniversary, the company held its first annual Redhead Equipment Heavy Hitter Charity Classic on Monday, June 12, at Wascana Country Club. Through our 11 locations, we do business in every community in the province and beyond. When choosing a charity to partner with, we look to find one that can benefit every one of those same communities.
This year, we chose to partner with Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan; their CEO, Tammy Forrester, shared plans to build new houses in Regina and Prince Albert.
The golf tournament brought together individuals and organizations from all walks of life, united in our shared commitment to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Our marketing department put together a first-class experience for the 136 golfers who attended. Our staff and volunteers also did a great job making everyone feel welcome and kept everything running smoothly.
Our suppliers stepped up and supported the tournament with both donations and attendance. Many customers also attended the tournament. The support from suppliers and customers was incredible and we thank them for their support.
Wascana Country Club made the event special with great service, great food and a meticulously maintained course. This provided a remarkable experience that will be treasured by all who participated.
Throughout the day, we were able to raise $78,000 for Ronald McDonald House. Through the generosity of the Redhead and Wallace families, Redhead Equipment matched those funds for a total donation of $156,000!
One of our customers was inspired by the day’s events and donated $5,000 the following day. Redhead Equipment matched this donation as well, so the new total is $166,000!
It was a great way to celebrate 75 years in business and we are grateful to everyone involved.
Thank you to our customers, suppliers and staff for 75 years in business! Our success depends on you and because of you, Redhead Equipment is able to give back to the communities that support us.
Takeaways from the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Business Conference
By Martin Charlton Communications
Canada is at an inflection point and, if our nation is going to keep up in the world, we’ll have to make some important choices that will determine the quality of life that future generations will enjoy in this country, according to Goldy Hyder, speaking to a crowd of business leaders gathered in Regina.
Hyder is the president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada. He spoke at the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s Business Conference in May, delivering a presentation titled, “Building Our Future: A Call to Action.”
The Business Council of Canada supported and contributed to the report by the Canada West Foundation (CWF), From Shovel Ready to Shovel Worthy: The Path to a National Trade Infrastructure Plan for the Next Generation of Economic Growth. The Western Canada Roadbuilders and Heavy Construction Association (WCR&HCA) helped initiate the report, which was endorsed by numerous associations and organizations concerned with the current investment, the lack of coordination (and planning) on a long-term strategy and the state of the federal trade corridors fund.
When the Shovel Ready report was released last year, Hyder said, “Strategic investments in infrastructure – including roads, bridges, airports, rail lines and port facilities – are essential to helping businesses compete, grow and create more jobs for Canadians.
“In a world where our supply chains are increasingly exposed to geopolitical risks, Canada needs strong transportation and trade corridors so that it can supply the world with the products it needs to achieve both our economic and environmental goals,” said Hyder.
During his speech in Regina, Hyder said the world will not wait for Canada. He explained his appreciation for Western Canada, where “you can see the economy in action” with people working hard to produce fuel, fertilizer and food to supply the world. He described Western Canadian people as those who solve problems and bring about positive change. There is a bounty available across the prairies, he said, pointing out the potash, oil and gas, uranium and agricultural technology that is produced here.
Hyder is concerned about how we move those goods through the country and beyond to the world markets, and he wonders whether it is possible to build and support all the infrastructure required by the country to be competitive on the world stage – the highways, bridges, ports, rail terminals, electrical grids and more. He described this infrastructure as forming “the arteries of our economy” and being the “heart and soul of moving things around.”
“In a world where our supply chains are increasingly exposed to geopolitical risks, Canada needs strong transportation and trade corridors so that it can supply the world with the products it needs to achieve both our economic and environmental goals.”
– Goldy Hyder, Business Council of Canada
Constructing this infrastructure creates well-paying jobs, not just during construction but also after, due to the trade that construction enables. Those present at the conference were reminded that Canada is a trading nation, with 60 per cent of our gross domestic product (GDP) relying on trade. Hyder pointed out how what is produced in one province also generates the GDP of at least one other province in the country, creating jobs across jurisdictions. He said we must continue to ask ourselves if we can get our goods to market efficiently and effectively and whether the commitment to do massive energy projects (that will allow for a low carbon future) is there.
Canada’s recent track record isn’t sending a confident message to the world, Hyder said. He pointed out the visit by German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in August 2022. Germany was concerned about its population being able to warm their homes because of the country’s dependence on Russian natural gas and the invasion of Ukraine. Germany needed to determine which country shared its values and had the resources and capacity to successfully make a trade.
Canada was its first choice, but Hyder said that rather than focus on delivering the liquefied natural gas (LNG) Germany needed, the federal government wanted to look at the future by discussing hydrogen, which would be available in an estimated three years.
That decision, he said, overlooked Germany’s immediate need to secure LNG because a cold winter was months away. So, Germany found what it needed in Australia, signing a 16-year agreement (which Hyder said showed that Germany does not agree hydrogen will be a viable option within the timeframe Canada proposed).
Canada’s focus on a carbon-free future – and projects to support that – has created a gap. Hyder said Canada must recognize that there is a real need for energy now that can’t be backfilled with renewable energy options anytime soon, making a transition period necessary. While it is important to look at where the puck is going, Hyder said you should also know where it is now and take advantage of both opportunities.
Hyder encouraged business leaders to speak up about the challenges they face that the government has a role in addressing – labour shortages, approval delays and more – and how those challenges are limiting growth, which has an impact on communities and the population.
That situation with Germany sent a message to Canada’s allies: we are not prepared to supply them. Hyder said Japan has urged Canada to play a role in its energy needs while a senior government official in Korea has wondered if our country is choosing to hoard the energy products needed by the world to move towards decarbonization. Other diplomats have expressed similar confusion about Canada, Hyder said.
One reason for this is our difficulty getting our products to market.
Permitting at the federal level has also caused issues for those trying to develop projects, including those producing green energy. Hyder described the Bay of Fundy project that Sustainable Marine halted because of federal bureaucracy. This project’s technology worked to generate power from the energy of the world’s highest tides to put into Canada’s electrical grid. Millions of dollars were invested, and millions of federal tax dollars in funding were secured for the project.
There were, however, concerns at the federal level about the technology’s potential to harm marine species, which baffled Sustainable Marine. Hyder said a lack of transparency and no regulatory pathway at the federal level led the company to suspend the project.
Permitting is a major concern of those investing in projects in Canada and could become even more critical if the U.S. achieves what it has planned.
Permitting is a major concern of those investing in projects in Canada and could become even more critical if the U.S. achieves what it has planned. Hyder relayed what he heard from the president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Suzanne Clark. During a visit to Ottawa, Clark described how the U.S. is aiming to approve most projects in seven years while complex projects could take up to 10 years to be approved.
That would put incredible pressure on Canada to react because otherwise capital is going to funnel to the U.S. to develop infrastructure there. That is not a political decision, but a business one, Hyder said. Investment flows to where there is the least resistance and projects form there. Those who miss out on this investment also miss out on the taxes that would have been paid, the social programs that would have been supported and the jobs that would have been created.
He pointed out Canada’s earlier reputation of being great at building major projects that helped to modernize and advance our economy so that we could provide a quality of life that attracted people from around the world to want to locate here. The examples he provided opened within the last 65 years.
For example, the Trans-Canada Highway opened in 1962 to become one of the world’s longest highways, passing through all the provinces. The Montreal-Lake Ontario Section of the St. Lawrence Seaway was completed in 1959. The Trans-Canada pipeline – carrying natural gas across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec – was the longest in the world until the 1980s. Developing that infrastructure was vital to having a unified country. Hyder questions whether there would be 10 countries instead of one if Canada was founded today.
He encouraged the business leaders listening to ask if we have the vision to build modern infrastructure that connects supply chains to move goods, lowers carbon emissions, supports job creation and ensures our economy continues to grow. He said the federal government is making statements that building big matters and permitting must be more efficient to allow projects to move ahead faster, to decarbonize and develop critical mineral projects.
The Business Council of Canada had high hopes for the 2023 federal budget, and it said the federal government will propose steps to ensure effective reviews of major projects that support the growth of Canada’s clean economy, while upholding high standards for the environment. This included a plan to improve the efficiency of the impact assessment and permitting processes. Many in business agree that these steps need to be taken but are now waiting for actions to confirm that will occur, Hyder said.
Practical ideas for how the government could address this are in a Business Council of Canada report, titled Innovate, compete and win: A roadmap for Canada’s energy transition. The report sets out how the public and private sectors can work together on the most critical elements that will drive the country’s economic and environmental security.
It points out the case for fast-tracking projects that are in the national interest and meet one or more of the following criteria:
Contribution to global energy security
Ability to substitute Canadian products for more greenhouse gas (GHG)-intensive options in importing countries
Low-carbon fuel production (e.g., hydrogen, renewable natural gas, biofuels and uranium)
Electricity transmission within and between provinces that would lead to a net decrease in GHGs
Development of low-carbon electricity (e.g., renewables, nuclear, battery storage, pumped hydro)
Critical mineral mining and processing facilities
Projects that are Indigenous led, have an Indigenous ownership component or have Indigenous support based on early engagement by the proponent
The private sector is leading with major employers committing to being net zero by 2050, according to Hyder. While not all have completely worked out what they will do to achieve net-zero, there are many interested in supporting the innovation required to meet that goal. Canada has the capacity and know-how within the energy and natural resource sectors, which have already proven we can lead the world in innovation, he said.
There is leadership in action within the private sector, but they need willing partners in the public sector to expedite projects to benefit all Canadians by providing a more predictable regulatory process. That includes one review per project rather than requiring multiple reviews by various levels of government or provinces, Hyder said.
He explained the need for provinces to discuss their interdependence. For example, Saskatchewan depends on British Columbia’s ports to export its commodities. Saskatchewan has an interest in port expansion because without it, what it is producing will be exported through the U.S., which means handing over the decision about when those commodities will be sent out to another country. That, Hyder said, is “outsourcing our sovereignty.”
Canada should be developing the infrastructure needed to lead growth, Hyder said, instead of a cycle of infrastructure catching up to growth. That infrastructure needs to support trade – both exports and imports – while also modernizing so we have the digital infrastructure the rest of the world is adopting.
Hyder encouraged business leaders to speak up about the challenges they face that the government has a role in addressing – labour shortages, approval delays and more – and how those challenges are limiting growth, which has an impact on communities and the population. Business leaders need to speak up because they can’t wait for academics, which take years, and media to point out the problems. Politicians need to be reminded of the positive impacts of businesses – including generating tax revenue that supports healthcare and education, said Hyder.
He has faith that the Canadian population is prepared for an intelligent conversation about these concerns and that, by framing the conversation around what is fair and what supports this country, maintaining its sovereignty will help people focus on what matters to bettering our future.
From April 4 to 25, 2023, Saskatchewan road users – including pedestrians, motorists, cyclists, transit riders and motorcyclists – nominated and voted for their worst, unsafe roads. The common safety concerns for worst, unsafe roads are crumbling pavement, potholes, lack of maintenance or repair, congestion, not enough signage and poor infrastructure.
Here are the CAA 2023 Top 10 Worst Roads:
Saskatchewan 44, Eston Major problem: Potholes
Saskatchewan 30, Eston Major problem: Potholes
Coteau Street West, Moose Jaw Major problem: Potholes
Highway 13: Redvers Major problem: Potholes
Saskatchewan 5, Buchanan Major problem: Poor road maintenance (#5 in 2022 CAA Worst Roads campaign)
Butte Street, Pilot Butte Major problem: Potholes
Saskatchewan 9, Whitewood Major problem: Potholes
Saskatchewan 123, Petaigan/Ravendale/Pemmican Portage Major problem: Potholes
Highway 9, Hudson Bay Major problem: Potholes (#3 in 2022 and 2021 and #5 in 2018 CAA Worst Roads)
Old Highway 35, White Fox Major problem: Potholes
A total of 292 roads were nominated and voted on during this year’s CAA Worst Roads campaign. These included roads and highways from across the province that have made CAA’s Worst Roads Top 10 list in previous years such as Saskatchewan 47 Springside (#2 in 2022 and #2 in 2018), 9th Avenue Southwest in Moose Jaw (#10 in 2022 and in 2018), as well as some new additions including Regina’s Connaught Street, Weyburn’s 1st Avenue Northeast, and Wanuskewin Road in Saskatoon. The collection of roads nominated and voted during this year’s campaign indicates that Saskatchewan road users are concerned about their safety while travelling on our roads and highways, with this year’s top 10 list indicating the roads that received the majority of the votes.
The CAA 2023 Worst Roads roving reporter stakeholder and road user interviews are on the CAA Saskatchewan YouTube channel and feature City of Saskatoon’s Todd Grabowski talking about improvements to Circle Drive, Mayor Clive Tolley from Moose Jaw, who provided insight on Moose Jaw’s 4th Avenue Viaduct, Ministry of Highways Assistant Deputy Minister Tom Lees, who addressed changes to Saskatchewan 155 La Loche, which was the #4 CAA Worst Road in 2022 and the #1 in the 2017 CAA Worst Roads, avid cyclist Sarah Bilawski, who shared her safety concerns, and City of Regina’s Kim Onrait on location in Regina’s Whitmore Park – home of two of the 2022 CAA Worst Roads, Grant Drive and Mayfair Crescent.
Weather conditions, age of the roads, heavy traffic and lack of maintenance can cause road deterioration. In cold climates like Saskatchewan, the freeze-thaw cycle plays a key role in creating potholes – a problem that occurs when temperatures regularly go above and below the freezing point. When rain or snow seeps through cracks and openings in the pavement, it freezes and expands, causing the pavement to heave upward. As temperatures rise, the ground underneath the pavement returns to its normal level, leaving a cavity or hole that breaks apart with continued road user traffic over the fractured pavement.
Saskatchewan is a landlocked province and has almost 250,000 km of roads, the highest length of road surface compared to any other province in Canada. These roads, often a lifeline for many residents, are used on a regular basis for business and leisure road travel and when these roads are allowed to deteriorate, road users pay the price.
CAA Saskatchewan is a dedicated safety advocate, and the CAA Worst Roads is an online engagement campaign aimed at drawing attention to our province’s worst, unsafe roads. This year’s top 10 list of worst roads will be distributed to government and business leaders in hopes of sparking conversation and action.
Working towards better roads and safety for all road users is a priority for CAA Saskatchewan.
Saskatchewan is a landlocked province and has almost 250,000 km of roads, the highest length of road surface compared to any other province in Canada. These roads, often a lifeline for many residents, are used on a regular basis for business and leisure road travel and when these roads are allowed to deteriorate, road users pay the price.
Highway construction season in full swing
When the daylight hours become longer and warmer weather rolls in, construction equipment rolls out onto Saskatchewan highways. The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding travellers to keep an eye out for highway construction zones across the province.
“The Ministry of Highways has crews working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network,” said Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill. “Let’s keep them safe, so everyone gets home safe at night. We have lots of work going on and these slowdowns are only temporary.”
Some major construction projects will continue or be completed to improve safety and traffic flow, including:
Continuing passing lanes and widening on Highway 5 from Saskatoon to Highway 2;
Beginning construction of twinning projects near Rowatt and Corinne on Highways 6 and 39 between Regina and Weyburn; and
Beginning upgrades on Highway 15 east of Kenaston between Highways 11 and 2.
“Provincial road builders employ close to 30,000 workers, making our industry one of the largest employers in the province, and they are working to build Saskatchewan,” said Shantel Lipp, Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association president. “We want to remind drivers to be patient and drive with caution while our builders go to work on the roads this season. This will help ensure their safety as well as yours.”
“Provincial road builders employ close to 30,000 workers, making our industry one of the largest employers in the province, and they are working to build Saskatchewan. We want to remind drivers to be patient and drive with caution while our builders go to work on the roads this season. This will help ensure their safety as well as yours.”
– Shantel Lipp, SHCA
“Our members are pleased to work with our partners at the Ministry of Highways to make strategic improvements to the transportation network,” said Bev MacLeod, executive director of the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Saskatchewan. “These improvements will make the highway system better and safer for all the people of Saskatchewan.”
There are plans to improve another 1,000 km of highways, for a total of more than 4,600 km of highways improved over the last four years. Improvements this year include:
230 km of repaving;
300 km of medium treatments, like micro surfacing;
340 km of pavement sealing;
115 km of thin membrane surface (TMS) and rural highway upgrades; and
35 km of gravel rehabilitation.
Highways will also invest $62.8 million to repair or rebuild 14 bridges and replace more than 100 culverts across the province. Significant bridge projects include replacing the Montreal River Bridge on Highway 2 near Weyakwin and rehabilitating the Highway 6 bridge over Regina’s Ring Road for traffic heading north into the city.
The WCB remains fully funded, which means it remained within the targeted funding percentage range of 105 per cent to 120 per cent in 2022.
WCB releases 2022 operating results
The Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) remained fully funded within the targeted range in 2022, which means it can cover the future costs of all claims in the system.
“Under The Workers’ Compensation Act, 2013, the WCB is legislated to have sufficient funds in our injury fund to cover current and future claim costs for injured workers. The range protects against unexpected claim activity or fluctuating economic conditions,” said WCB chair Gord Dobrowolsky. “This includes providing benefits and assistance such as earnings loss, physical and vocational rehabilitation, prevention initiatives and other obligations under the Act.”
The WCB remains fully funded, which means it remained within the targeted funding percentage range of 105 per cent to 120 per cent in 2022. The funding policy is currently under review to align with new accounting standards that will be effective for the fiscal year ending Dec. 31, 2023.
The WCB also reported that the 2023 employer premium rates increased to $1.28, a five-cent increase from the 2022 rate of $1.23.
Financial highlights of the WCB’s 2022 results included:
Claim costs were $189.4 million in 2022, down from $336.2 million in 2021.
The WCB’s injury fund was at $436.0 million as of year-end 2022, compared to $549.4 million in 2021.
The WCB had premium revenues of $304.0 million in 2022 (up from $259.5 million in 2021) and an investment loss of $132.1 million in 2022 (compared to investment income of $254.1 million in 2021). Investment losses includes realized investment income of $98.0 million less $5.4 million for investment expenses, less a $230.1 million decrease in unrealized investment gains for the year.
The WCB covered 400,392 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers in 2022, compared to 392,813 in 2021.
Last year, the WCB advanced the second year of the major corporate initiative, the Business Transformation Program, which is a $150-million, multi-year investment. Through this initiative, the WCB is engaging customers, partners and WCB staff in this multi-year journey to implement the changes that it believes are necessary to meet customers’ expectations now and into the future.
“Our program involves improving customers’ experience and outcomes, updating, replacing or introducing new technologies, and improving our processes and approach to service delivery,” said WCB CEO Phillip Germain. “The ongoing transformation of our organization enables us to further enhance our business functions and better respond to the needs of our customers, who are the workers and employers of Saskatchewan.”
To support the WCB’s vision to eliminate injuries and restore abilities, the organization promotes workplace safety and injury prevention for workers and employers across the province.
“While we’ve seen some improvements in our injury rates over the last decade, there is still more for all of us to do,” said Germain.
Injury data highlights in 2022 included:
In 2022, 90 per cent of Saskatchewan workplaces reported zero injuries or fatalities for the third year in a row. Last year, 39 workplace fatalities were reported, up from 31 in 2021.
The workplace total injury rate in 2022 decreased to 4.33 injuries per 100 workers, representing a five per cent decrease from the 2021 total injury rate of 4.56 per 100 workers.
The 2022 Time Loss injury rate increased to 2.04 injuries per 100 workers, up 0.49 per cent from the 2021 rate of 2.03 injuries per 100 workers.
Saskatchewan construction investment and housing stats grow
According to numbers released by Statistics Canada in April, Saskatchewan continues to see growth in building construction investment. Year-over-year, investment in building construction saw a 2.7 per cent increase compared to February 2022 (seasonally adjusted), with a total of $356 million invested in building construction in February 2023.
“These numbers are another example of how much people want to invest in Saskatchewan long-term,” said Trade and Export Development Minister Jeremy Harrison. “These investments result in a strong economy that creates more jobs and more opportunities for the people of this province.”
As well, urban housing starts rose by 76.4 per cent February 2022 and 2023, ranking first among the provinces. In the first two months of 2023, urban housing starts in Saskatchewan increased by 49.7 per cent.
In the first two months of 2023, urban housing stats in Saskatchewan increased by 49.7 per cent.
Canada Infrastructure Bank invests $27.3 million in wastewater treatment facility
Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) and English River First Nation (ERFN), through their economic development arm Des Nedhe Group, closed on a $27.3 million financing agreement in March. The loan will support the construction of a new wastewater treatment facility and infrastructure on ERFN’s Grasswoods Urban Reserve near Saskatoon.
“The CIB is proud to partner with English River First Nation and Des Nedhe Group to invest in critical infrastructure at the Grasswoods Urban Reserve. Our $27.3 million investment will accelerate construction of a new wastewater treatment facility, providing the community with the certainty they need to plan for future development. As part of our mandate, the CIB is committed to collaborating with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit communities to help deliver inclusive and sustainable infrastructure which will benefit future generations,” said Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank with the announcement on March 15.
Construction on the facility is expected to complete in 2024.
First-of-its-kind event for Saskatchewan: Save the date for Nov. 29–30 in Regina
The SHCA 2023 Infrastructure Summit is a two-day conference, taking place Nov. 29–30, 2023, at the Delta Hotel & Convention Center in Regina, held in partnership by the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA), the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and the Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – Saskatchewan.
This year’s inaugural event celebrates the significant socio-economic return of transportation investments by the Province of Saskatchewan.
The conference and tradeshow will provide excellent networking opportunities, bringing together leaders and innovators from policymakers, owners, builders and engineers to explore the emerging technologies and partnerships that will enable clean, efficient and accessible transportation systems. The conference will explore advancements in transportation efficiency, accessibility, safety, environment and community across the transportation infrastructure that connects Saskatchewanians and grows Saskatchewan’s economy.
Highlights of the event include presentations from Pamela Barnum and Mark Nesbitt.
Pamela Barnum
Since 2012, Pamela Barnum has been coaching and consulting on sales and trust-building. In 2015, she began sharing strategies to improve negotiations and increase sales through intentional communication and body language. Prior to this, Barnum spent over 20 years working in the criminal justice system, first as an undercover police officer in the drug enforcement section and later as a prosecuting attorney.
Mark Nesbitt
Mark Nesbitt is the founder of Nesbitt Training and active member of the aggregate community. Bringing in 30 years as a veteran in the aggregate, mining, trucking and construction industry, Nesbitt has fostered a passion for helping people develop a multitude of personal and professional assets as they strive to grow and improve upon themselves.
Throughout his career, Nesbitt has been committed to further improving his leadership skills – an important skillset for continual development. By attending leadership seminars and additional alternate training sessions, not only did Nesbitt ensure he developed a well-rounded perspective of leadership practice, he also acknowledged one frequently missed key component to most training and leadership programs – valuable background knowledge and subject matter directly pulled from industry experience.
The Summit will conclude with the 2024 Industry Awards Gala in the evening of Nov. 30.
The Government of Saskatchewan is ramping up repaving work this year with 230 kilometres (km) of improvements at key corridors around the province, including a segment of Highway 33. It is part of a plan to improve another 1,000 km of highway this season.
“Our government is in year four of the Growth Plan and we made some commitments to Saskatchewan people, including a pledge to improve 10,000 km in a decade,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Our construction crews are working all over the province making improvements to our transportation network which will improve safety and enhance key transportation corridors.”
The 38-kilometre repaving project between Fillmore and Stoughton will also include four intersection improvements on Highway 33. Construction began earlier this month and is expected to continue through most of the summer.
“Maintaining and improving rural highway infrastructure is important for the people who work, live and visit our communities,” Fillmore Reeve Russell Leguee said. “The upgrades to Highway 33 will positively contribute to the safe and reliable movement of agricultural commodities to markets domestically and globally. Ensuring connectivity between communities and providing safe and reliable roads ensures a better quality of life for people living in rural areas.”
The general contractor is Langenburg Redi-Mix of Regina.
Drivers can expect delays with multiple work zones in the area at times. Traffic will be guided by a pilot vehicle. Remember to slow to at least 60 km/hr through the work zone, be extra cautious and obey all signs.
A weekly highway construction update is published on Saskatchewan.ca to provide drivers with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel.
Major safety improvements on Highway 16 have been completed. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to commemorate completion of the final set of passing lanes which have opened near Saltcoats.
“The Yellowhead Highway is a major transportation corridor that is used to move people and goods across the province,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “With the expanding canola crushing facilities in the area, there are a lot of large trucks traveling through the area and we’re taking steps to move that traffic safely and efficiently. These passing lanes allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.”
The multi-year passing lanes project extends from Clavet, east of Saskatoon, to the Saskatchewan/Manitoba border, east of Yorkton. This highway safety project was a key investment in Saskatchewan’s $2 billion stimulus program during the global pandemic to help drive economic recovery. In all, 26 passing lanes and multiple intersection upgrades were constructed.
“As representatives of Saskatchewan truck transport, we are pleased to see investments in the highway network that assist the movement of trucks and most importantly ones designed to improve the safety for our professional drivers,” Saskatchewan Trucking Association president Susan Ewart said. “The passing lanes and intersection enhancements will be welcome by our members.”
Passing lanes are typically a minimum of two kilometres and allow drivers to pass slower moving vehicles safely.
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is raising the alarm regarding the ongoing strike at the West Coast ports and highlighting the severe consequences it poses for the province of Saskatchewan. As a landlocked region, businesses in Saskatchewan already face significant disadvantages, and any disruption in trade through the West Coast ports could have immediate and long-term negative impacts on the provincial economy. In response, the Chamber has communicated its concerns to Minister O’Regan and Minister Alghabra, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution to prevent further harm to the Canadian economy, competitiveness and our reputation as a stable trading nation.
Prabha Ramaswamy, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, expressed deep concern over the situation, stating, “The strike at the West Coast ports poses a significant threat to Saskatchewan’s economy. Our province heavily relies on trade through the Vancouver-Fraser Port, with billions of dollars’ worth of commodities passing through annually. The inability to access these ports will force us to resort to high-cost alternatives in the United States, causing losses for Canadian businesses and workers.”
Saskatchewan’s landlocked status puts it at a distinct disadvantage in international trade. The province’s economy thrives on exporting various commodities, including agricultural products, minerals and manufactured goods. The West Coast ports, particularly the Vancouver-Fraser Port, serve as vital gateways for these exports, facilitating billions of dollars in trade each year. The Vancouver-Fraser Port alone handles $17 billion worth of Saskatchewan commodities each year, and a total of $65 billion in western Canada’s trade goes through the port of Vancouver.
The strike has far-reaching implications beyond Saskatchewan’s borders. With more than 7,000 workers currently on strike, the West Coast ports handle an astonishing $800 million worth of goods per day. This disruption poses a significant threat to Canada’s overall economy, impacting businesses and consumers across the nation. Moreover, the strike jeopardizes Canada’s reputation as a reliable and stable trading nation, potentially leading to long-term consequences for international partnerships and investment.
The situation is further compounded by the lack of alternative Canadian ports with the capacity to absorb diverted products. The existing trade infrastructure is operating at maximum capacity, leaving Canadian businesses with no choice but to turn to high-cost port options in the United States. This alternative not only imposes significant financial burdens on businesses but also undermines the benefits that come from handling and shipping products domestically.
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce urgently urges Minister O’Regan and Minister Alghabra to take swift and decisive action to resolve the collective bargaining agreement between the BC Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Canada. Their intervention is critical in ensuring the prompt resumption of operations at the West Coast ports, safeguarding Saskatchewan’s economic stability and preserving Canada’s reputation as a reliable trading partner.
A $22.7 million highway construction project is underway near Kenaston. The two-year major highway improvement project will include construction of a subgrade, widening and resurfacing on Highway 15.
“The Ministry of Highways is dedicated to enhancing safety and improving key transportation corridors through continued investments,” Highways Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “Highway 15, a high clearance corridor, offers shippers and commercial carriers an ideal opportunity to transport over-dimension loads.”
The Highway 15 corridor allows goods to be trucked without the need to raise or temporarily cut utility lines and other structures.
The Highway 15 construction project is 22 kilometres, which runs from 15 kilometres east of the junction with Highway 11 to about 20 kilometres west of the junction with Highway 2. The project will include culvert replacements and road widening work this year, which is expected to be complete this fall. Paving work will begin during the 2024 construction season.
“This is a major project that will take time to complete,” Cockrill said. “We appreciate the patience of drivers who slow down for safety as we work to enhance our transportation system.”
Langenburg Redi-Mix of Regina is the general contractor.
A weekly highway construction update is published on Saskatchewan.ca to provide drivers with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel. If you’re planning to travel, check the Highway Hotline at saskatchewan.ca/highwayhotline, which provides up-to-date information on construction, emergency road closures, the status of ferries, barges and other road activities. Information is also available by calling 511.
The Government of Saskatchewan is improving 1,000 kilometres of provincial highways this year. This keeps the province on track to meet the Growth Plan goal to build and upgrade 10,000 kilometres of highways over 10 years.
Since 2008, the Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $12 billion in highways improving more than 19,400 kilometres of Saskatchewan roads.
